Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Model Hailey Clauson Gets Real About Bikini Shoots

Most of us probably won't spend time on the set of a Sports Illustrated swimsuit shoot, as a photographer, makeup artist, or model. So, thanks to her work in a number of bikini shoots both with SI and other brands, supermodel Hailey Clauson has a unique perspective to offer on what it's really like creating images that millions of people around the world will see.

We spoke to the 20-year-old model, who has been in the business for seven years already, to find out what it's really like to do a job like hers. Is it different doing swimsuit shoots versus traditional high-fashion modeling? And what else does she hope for in her career? Hailey was happy to share seven secrets from her own experiences that shed light on her very interesting — and previously mysterious — career.

01
Shoots Can Be Awkward

Shoots Can Be Awkward

The outcome of Hailey's swimsuit shoots may look natural and spur-of-the-moment, but there is actually a lot of time and posing involved. "They're long days," she revealed. "There are extreme weather conditions . . . It’s a lot of time at the shoot. It’s not just like you hop on the beach!" Shoots can, Hailey admitted, be awkward. "But," she said. "At this point, I'm so used to it that it doesn't faze me anymore."

02
Workouts Before Swim Shoots Are Different

Workouts Before Swim Shoots Are Different

Instead of doing a ton of cardio, Hailey does weight training before swimsuit shoots. "I try to amp it up and be more weights so I look more athletic," she said. "Because when you’re shooting for Sports Illustrated, they don’t want you to be super skinny. They want you to look like a healthy, strong, athletic woman. It's a lot of work."

03
The Makeup Tricks Are Surprisingly Useful

The Makeup Tricks Are Surprisingly Useful

Hailey has picked up some seriously useful tips from makeup artists on swim sets, who tend to favor a natural look. "It’s definitely the makeup that I would do on a regular basis," Hailey said. "It’s like the no-makeup makeup look." That means contouring, a little blush, and some brown eye shadow. "Just bringing out your natural features," she added.

04
Models Can Indulge

Models Can Indulge

Except for the immediate few days before a shoot, Hailey works a cheat day into her diet. "I live down the street from Magnolia, so it’s kind of dangerous," she said. "It’s always like I want sugar or bread."

05
There Needs to Be Balance

There Needs to Be Balance

Even though swim shoots require natural makeup, Hailey tries to go completely product-free during her time off. "During the week, I try not to wear makeup so my skin doesn’t break out — because I wear so much while I’m working," she said.

06
The Shoots Are Unique

The Shoots Are Unique

Hailey admits that swimsuit models have to know the difference between what they're doing versus fashion editorial or runway work. "Swimsuit is sexy and showing off your body," she said. "It’s a completely different type of modeling."

07
Vogue Is the Goal

Vogue Is the Goal

Hailey's worked hard to get where she is, but, she admitted, "there’s always so much more to achieve." Her goal, she says, is doing more and more in fashion. "I love doing fashion," she said. "So getting a Vogue cover would be amazing."